Ikorodu City Shock Rivers United To Shake NPFL Title Race

Ikorodu City pulled off a major upset on Monday evening, March 17, beating Rivers United 1-0 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos to throw the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title race wide open.

It was a tense match from the start, with both sides creating openings but lacking the finishing touch. Rivers United, who had looked set to pull clear at the top, struggled to break through a disciplined Ikorodu backline before the break.

The decisive moment arrived seven minutes into the second half. Substitute Folarin Temitope reacted quickest after goalkeeper Rashid Owolabi spilled Salami Farouk’s effort, calmly turning in the rebound to give the hosts the lead.

Temitope’s impact proved decisive, with Ikorodu City holding firm under late pressure to secure all three points.

The home side reshuffled after the goal, handing Chinedu Akuvuo his debut while tightening midfield and attack to protect their advantage. Rivers United responded with changes of their own, introducing Iyowuna Douglas and Timothy Zachariah, but they could not find a way through despite sustained pressure.

The result lifts Ikorodu City to 48 points and up to third place, overtaking Nasarawa United and Shooting Stars in the push for continental spots.

Rivers United remain top on 51 points, a point above second-placed Enugu Rangers, who are unbeaten in seven matches and closing fast.

Attention now turns to Thursday’s outstanding fixture, where Rivers United face Niger Tornadoes. The outcome could further tighten the NPFL title race as the season enters a tense run-in after 30 games.